If you’re into hockey romance, enemies-to-lovers tension, and just the right amount of emotional depth, Icebreaker by Hannah Grace is the book that needs to be on your radar.
With its TikTok-fueled buzz and irresistible premise—a figure skater and a hockey captain forced to share ice time—this debut novel delivers far more than its cute cover suggests.
Book Review: Icebreaker by Hannah Grace
At first glance, Icebreaker might look like your typical rom-com with a sports twist. But don’t let the pastel cover fool you—this is a spicy, character-rich story that takes its time and rewards you for it.
Anastasia, a driven figure skater with Olympic ambitions, and Nathan, the college hockey team captain, are thrown into each other’s world when a rink malfunction forces their teams to share practice time.
What begins with tension and rivalry (not quite enemies-to-lovers, but close) slowly develops into genuine chemistry. And yes—there’s a lot of spice. This isn’t a fade-to-black romance. It’s explicit, adult, and not shy about it.
But here’s the surprise: Icebreaker isn’t just about heat—it’s about heart. What really elevates this book is its commitment to character development. Both Anastasia and Nathan are layered, with family pressures, emotional growth, and therapy woven into their arcs. The dual POV is particularly well-handled, giving readers insight into both characters’ perspectives without redundancy.
Despite its 400+ page count, this book reads fast. It’s well-paced, plot-driven, and emotionally resonant—perfect for fans of college romance with strong supporting casts, long-term development, and satisfying resolutions.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.6/5)
Books Like Icebreaker – 3 Spicy Romances to Try Next
If Icebreaker left you wanting more slow burns, strong heroines, and sports-themed romance, here are three perfect follow-ups.
1. The Deal by Elle Kennedy
A hockey romance staple. When Hannah strikes a deal with college jock Garrett to fake-date her for popularity points, sparks fly.
Like Icebreaker, it’s dual POV, steamy, and packed with banter—and also explores trauma and growth.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.1/5)
2. The Cheat Sheet by Sarah Adams
For a lower-spice but equally swoon-worthy read, this friends-to-lovers story about a ballerina and her NFL best friend has all the charm.
Fake dating, emotional depth, and clean romance make this a fan favorite.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.2/5)
3. Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter
If you loved the emotional beats and college setting but want something lighter (and closed-door), this YA rom-com is pure serotonin.
Witty, self-aware, and driven by love for music and movies, it’s comfort reading at its best.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.1/5)
Icebreaker is more than a social media hit—it’s a genuinely well-written romance that balances heat with heart. If you love romance with sports, spice, and substance, this one’s for you.